According to the National Health Council, a troubling 50 percent of American adults suffer greatly with their health. Thankfully, recent research has shown that a pair of natural substances – glutathione and vitamin C – can help to increase the body’s natural antioxidant defense system. This, in turn, helps to reduce the risk of excess oxidative stress – which leads to a diminished quality of life.
Researchers have found that these natural compounds work in concert, with each helping to replenish and recycle the other. Let’s take a closer look at the health benefits that are obtained by taking these two natural substances together.
Glutathione and vitamin C: Two “superstar” antioxidants join forces
Glutathione – one of the most powerful antioxidants in the body – is also its premier detoxifying molecule, working to neutralize pathogens, environmental toxins, and carcinogens. In addition, it boosts the immune system, increases strength and endurance, and encourages the body to form lean muscle rather than fat.
In fact, so strongly tied is glutathione to health and well-being that scientists can use glutathione levels to predict longevity – quite a testament to its influence in the body!
Unfortunately, glutathione levels can be threatened by toxic drugs, environmental toxins, and chronic stress – as well as by normal aging. Unsurprisingly, healthy young people have the highest levels of glutathione, while elderly, hospitalized patients have the very lowest.
Like glutathione, vitamin C can help to boost immune system function. In fact, studies have shown that vitamin C increases production of life protective antibodies and promotes the function of phagocytes, the body’s scavenger cells.
In addition, vitamin C – which has potent antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties – can protect fragile cell membranes and prevent damage to cell DNA, as well as to important proteins and enzymes (including glutathione). It is also a cofactor in the production of collagen – which is essential to arterial and heart health.
So, it’s clear to see: insufficient stores of glutathione and vitamin C can cause serious health issues.
Stronger together: Glutathione and vitamin C empower each other
Together, these two antioxidants neutralize harmful free radicals. This is important, because free radicals cause the unhealthy peroxidation of cell membrane lipids, leading to eventual cell death and increased likelihood of sickness.
Noted functional physician and author Dr. Mark Hyman uses the “hot potato” analogy to explain the antioxidant actions of glutathione and vitamin C. Free radicals get bounced like a “hot potato” from one antioxidant to another, shuttling from vitamin C to vitamin E – then on to lipoic acid, and finally, glutathione.
Glutathione “cools off” the free radicals while recycling the other antioxidants, sacrificing itself in the process. However, the process ends with the regeneration of more glutathione. In other words, glutathione and vitamin C function as a “buddy act,” in which each has the other’s back.
Vitamin C also helps to protect glutathione in the tissues, while glutathione coverts worn-out vitamin C (dehydroascorbic acid) back into its active form. In fact, a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition demonstrated that glutathione can actually alleviate vitamin C deficiency.
Boost glutathione and vitamin C with diet and proper supplementation.
You can help your body increase its glutathione production by eating sulfur-rich foods, such as garlic, onions, and cruciferous vegetables including Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and arugula.
When it comes to ramping up vitamin C intake, red bell peppers, kiwi fruit, strawberries, and citrus fruits are among the best sources.
Adding supplements of both can be a great idea as well. Bottom line: when it comes to protecting your health, glutathione and vitamin C are “on the job.” Maybe it’s time to put this dynamic duo to work for you?
Be sure to pick up your Vitamin C and Glutathione supplements on your next visit to Whitaker’s Natural Market.
Portions of this health tip are from Natural Health 365.
